Two New SEA\LNG Partners

Posted by Eric HaunNovember 29, 2016

SEA\LNG, which works to accelerate the widespread adoption of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a marine fuel, has welcomed two new partners, each representing key aspects of the LNG maritime value chain: ABS and Keppel Offshore & Marine’s Gas Technology Development.

The recent decision by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPS) to enforce the global 0.5 percent cap on the sulphur content of marine fuel by 2020 has significantly increased interest in LNG as a cost effective, safe and more environmentally friendly fuel.

Peter Keller, SEA\LNG Chairman, said, “We are pleased to welcome Keppel Offshore & Marine’s Gas Technology Development and ABS to SEA\LNG. They add valuable industry expertise and perspective, as SEA\LNG’s work to promote the environmental and performance benefits of LNG as a marine transport fuel, moves up a gear.”

He added, “These two new partners are particularly important as they represent different aspects of the marine LNG value chain and with their input, SEA\LNG offers a comprehensive and expert global perspective.”

Keppel Offshore & Marine’s Gas Technology Development was set up in 2015, and provides a range of gas solutions along the value chain. The division has significant LNG research and development capabilities and a strong track record in the conversion of floating storage and regasification units. It is also undertaking the world’s first floating liquefaction vessel conversion.

As one of the world’s leading marine and offshore classification societies, ABS works with industry stakeholders to set standards against which the design, construction and operational maintenance of high performance assets can be assessed. ABS has considerable experience in risk assessment and hazard analyses related to LNG bunkering, including proving the feasibility of certain simultaneous operations (SIMOPs) – a crucial aspect of the economic viability of LNG as a marine fuel – meeting the intent of industry safety standards.

ABS Chairman, President and CEO, Christopher J. Wiernicki, said, “ABS brings more than 150 years of experience and industry expertise to SEA\LNG. We fully understand future energy demands and the environmental drivers of today’s dynamic markets and look forward to working with SEA\LNG to balance those needs with operational safety and performance.”

SEA\LNG was launched in July this year. Its members are drawn from across the LNG industry, all of whom are keen to remove market barriers and help transform the use of LNG as a marine fuel into a global reality.